Introducing the Belt Loop Folders for the Overlocker

March 21, 2025 Mary Beck

Mustard yellow pants with colorful thread and belt loops

The Belt Loop Folders are new accessories for the overlocker that allow you to make belt loops and straps in three different sizes using light- to medium-weight fabrics. The finished sizes are 10 mm (3/8”), 15 mm (5/8”), and 20 mm (7/8”). Each size is sold separately.

blue, green, and coral fabric in varying widths with three different Belt Loop Folders in three different sizes

Belt Loop Folder Functionality

The Belt Loop Folder #C30 is attached to the L 890 Coverstitch Insert using the Accessories Holder, which is sold separately.

Belt Loop Folder and accessories on a white background

The Accessories Holder swings out making it easy to attach the Belt Loop Folder AND insert fabric. Then it swings it back into place for stitching.

green fabric being fed through the Belt Loop Folder on the BERNINA L 890

There are two sets of screws included with the Accessories Holder. One set is for attaching the holder to the BERNINA L 890. The other set works with the bernette coverstitch and combo machines, the b42, b48, b62, and b68.

the bernette 68 serger machine on a white background

A wide coverstitch is recommended, either a 3-thread or 4-thread. Therefore, this attachment can only be used on a machine with this capability, whether it is a combo machine or coverstitch only machine.

BERNINA L 890 machine on a white background

Using the Belt Loop Folders

So how does the attachment work? Let’s start with a little anatomy.

Diagram showing the various parts of the Belt Loop Folder

(A) is the Accessories Holder, which is required for attaching the Belt Loop Folder to the machine. (B) is the connecting piece with the included locking screw that slides into the Accessories Holder. The finished width and cutting width are engraved on this in millimeters. (C) is where the strip is inserted right-side up. (D) is where the fabric exits the attachment. Both long sides are folded under and meet in the center of the wrong side of the strip. They do not overlap.

Here is a chart with recommended cutting sizes in metric and inches and the finished widths.

diagram listing the measurements of fabric for the various sizes of the Belt Loop Folder

Always sew a test strip. Depending on the thickness of the fabric and whether or not you are enclosing batting, ribbon, or elastic, the cutting width may need to be adjusted.

A variety of presser feet can be used, including the Standard Overlock Foot #C11, Cover-/Chainstitch Foot #C13, Coverstitch Compensating Foot #C12, and Clear Foot #C27. On the bernette overlocker, you can use either the Standard Foot or the Standard Foot with Clear Sole.

Clear Foot #C27 on a white background

To make a belt loop, begin by cutting a point at one end of the fabric strip.

yellow strip of fabric with a pointed end on a white textured background

Swing the folder out and insert the fabric strip right-side up. It’s helpful to use tweezers to advance the fabric through. Make sure the fabric moves freely through the attachment.

feeding yellow fabric through the Belt Loop Folder on the L 890

Swing the folder into place in front of the presser foot. Make sure to leave a space between the front of the foot and the edge of the hammer.

Pull the fabric strip through so that it is under the needles.

sewing the belt loop on the L 890

Center the folder with the left and right coverstitch needle notches on the presser foot. Make sure the foot does not touch the folder. You can adjust placement using the locking screw on the Belt Loop Folder or the screws on the holder or by turning the Cutting Width Dial.

Sew a few inches and check the stitch placement.

progress photo of yellow fabric being sewn into a belt loop

Elastic, ribbon, or batting can be inserted at the same time as fabric. Cut these to the finished width of the belt loop or slightly narrower.

That’s it! The Belt Loop Folders are quick to attach and easy to use for professional belt loops, quick straps, or fabric strips for embellishing. Use fusible thread in the chain looper and press to fuse to your project if using as an embellishment. Or use decorative thread in the chain looper and place the finished strips looper side up for a dazzling finish.

Here are some other fun applications: Heidi Hexagon Mat by Sookie Sews, Textured Elegance Belt Loop Pillow by Barbara Goldkorn, and To the Point by Amanda Murphy.

arrangement of colorful fabric and sewn samples